President Barzani's Newroz Message in Diyarbakir Calls for Unity, Peace, Freedom

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – As Kurds across the world gathered to celebrate Newroz, the festival of renewal, resistance, and freedom, President Masoud Barzani’s message echoed through the historic city of Diyarbakir, reaffirming his unwavering commitment to the Kurdish cause, peace, and unity. Delivered by Serbest Lezgin, a member of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) Politburo and President Barzani’s representative at the event, the speech carried profound sentiments of solidarity and hope for the Kurdish people.

Addressing thousands gathered in Diyarbakir for the festivities, Lezgin began by extending President Barzani’s warm greetings and appreciation to the officials of the DEM Party, political representatives, and all those in attendance. The message, imbued with a deep sense of national pride, emphasized Newroz as a symbol of spring, renewal, and the enduring struggle for Kurdish dignity and rights.

“In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful,” Barzani’s message read, “Newroz for the people of Kurdistan represents spring, renewal, light, and freedom. Newroz signifies a new life and heralds the victory of light over darkness and oppression.”

President Barzani extended his heartfelt congratulations to the families of martyrs, the heroic Peshmerga forces, and all segments of Kurdish society. He also conveyed his best wishes to Kurds in all parts of Kurdistan, from Iraq to Iran, Syria, and Turkey, as well as to other nations for whom Newroz holds cultural and historical significance.

Special recognition was given to the Kurdish diaspora, who celebrate Newroz with the same fervor as their compatriots in the homeland. “I want to warmly congratulate the Kurdish diaspora and the millions of Kurds who, with great sentiment, celebrate Newroz far from the homeland and spread Newroz values throughout the world,” President Barzani stated.

A particular mention was made of the grand celebration in Cologne, Germany, where Kurds reaffirmed their devotion to their heritage and aspirations for freedom. “You are the voice and image of your people, and I commend you,” he affirmed.

The message took on a particularly significant tone as Barzani reiterated Kurdistan’s commitment to coexistence, peace, and diplomacy. He expressed firm support for the peace process in Turkey, stating that “we consider peace to be the only right and proper way to overcome problems.”

In a powerful call for reconciliation, President Barzani also advocated for the release of Abdullah Ocalan, the imprisoned leader of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), and expressed hope for a peaceful resolution to the suffering of the Kurdish people in Syria. “We hope that the Kurdish parties in Syria can unify their stance and reach an outcome through peaceful means that would serve all sides,” he urged.

Reflecting on the broader situation in the region, President Barzani expressed hope that this year’s Newroz would bring comfort, prosperity, and happiness to the people of Kurdistan and Iraq. “I hope that the peoples of the region can live under the shadow of calm and stability in a peaceful and brotherly atmosphere,” he said.

As fire torches illuminated the skies of Diyarbakir, symbolizing the Kurdish people's centuries-old struggle against oppression, President Barzani’s message reinforced the spirit of resilience, unity, and determination that defines Newroz.

 “Happy Newroz, and may you remain in goodness and happiness,” his message concluded, carrying a wish for a future where Kurds can celebrate their heritage in peace, with dignity and sovereignty.

The presence of Kurdish political leaders, international representatives, and thousands of citizens in Diyarbakir underscored the festival’s significance as not just a cultural tradition, but a political statement of Kurdish identity and aspirations. With President Barzani’s call for peace and reconciliation resonating across the gathering, this year’s Newroz stood as a testament to the enduring dream of a free and united Kurdistan.